by Michael Buchsbaum
YA Fantasy, 2024 by Lost Boys Press, 403 Pages
What I Didn’t Like:
- Some of the action scenes move a little fast and clumsy. I had to read a few of them a second time to really understand what was happening. Of course, that could be because we’re dealing in fantasy.
- I didn’t love the main character. I found him a little unlikeable and concerned only for himself. This is a problem only because I think we’re supposed to like him. I didn’t really have anyone to root for.
- I wanted science to continue to be magic. When the fantasy world and fantasy creatures sort of took center stage, the vibe changed. The story becomes something more commonplace, something you’ve heard before.
What I Did Like:
- Great opener. We’re introduced to advanced science, the main character, and the possibilities opened up in this world all in one great scene. The main character’s voice comes through right away and sucks you into the world.
- I love the use of science as a form of magic, of sorts. They’ve taken science to extremes and it reads to us like magic, if that makes sense. It’s beautiful. Blending that with fantasy creatures was cool.
- The ending worked. You get enough resolution and answers to be happy while still leaving the door cracked for future stories in this world.
Who Should Read This One:
- Fans of fantasy worlds that read as if they exist alongside ours.
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